Mobile communication terminal apparatus and recording medium which records data operation process program

ABSTRACT

A mobile communication terminal apparatus having a panel used for a predetermined operation and image display and storage unit for recording various pieces of information includes a macro information setting unit, line model setting unit, macro information read unit, and macro processing unit. The macro information setting unit sets macro information which performs a series of operations. The line model setting unit sets linear line model information input from the panel for the macro information set by the macro information setting unit, and records the set line model information and macro information in the storage unit in correspondence with each other. The macro information read unit reads out, from the storage unit, macro information corresponding to line model information input from the panel. The macro processing unit executes a series of operations of the macro information read out by the macro information read unit. A recording medium which records a data operation process program is also disclosed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile communication terminalapparatus and a recording medium which records a data operation processprogram and, more particularly, to a mobile communication terminalapparatus which implements by a simple operation a predetermined processoperation that has been realized by a plurality of operations, and arecording medium which records a data operation process program.

[0002] In recent cell phones, input operation is frequently done usingthe operation keys of the cell phones along with an increase of variousfunctions such as an electronic mail send/receive function and browserfunction. For example, an address display window is displayed byoperating predetermined operation keys several times from a standbystate in order to input a telephone number.

[0003] Recently, compact, multifunctional cell phones have rapidly beendeveloped. For example, to downsize a cell phone, the screen size of thedisplay of the cell phone and the number of operation keys are reduced.To reduce the number of operation keys, a plurality of functions must beassigned to operation keys. A multifunctional cell phone complicates theoperation menu of the cell phone and sacrifices the user interface.

[0004] In this situation, there is proposed a cell phone disclosed inJapanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-94629. The conventional cell phone isa foldable cell phone in which upper and lower cases are pivotallycoupled. The display screens are formed on almost the entire surfaces ofthe upper and lower cases, respectively, and can display an image of alarger size. This also allows setting a larger number of touch typeoperation buttons and implementing multiple functions.

[0005] However, the above-mentioned conventional cell phone shifts to apredetermined function window by a plurality of operations using touchtype operation keys. In many cases, a series of operations for shift toa desired function window become complicated.

[0006] The future aging society requires a more easy-to-understand userinterface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention has been made to overcome the conventionaldrawbacks, and has as its object to provide a mobile communicationterminal apparatus which implements a user-friendly operation method,and a recording medium which records a data operation process program.

[0008] To achieve the above object, as a mobile communication terminalapparatus according to the present invention, there is provided a mobilecommunication terminal apparatus having a panel used for a predeterminedoperation and image display and storage means for recording variouspieces of information, comprising macro information setting means forsetting macro information which performs a series of operations, linemodel setting means for setting linear line model information input fromthe panel for the macro information set by the macro information settingmeans, and recording the set line model information and the macroinformation in the storage means in correspondence with each other,macro information read means for reading out, from the storage means,macro information corresponding to line model information input from thepanel, and macro processing means for executing a series of operationsof the macro information read out by the macro information read means.

[0009] As a recording medium which records a data operation processprogram according to the present invention, there is provided arecording medium which records a program that causes a controller of amobile communication terminal apparatus having a panel used for apredetermined operation and image display and storage means forrecording various pieces of information to execute a macro informationsetting process of setting macro information which performs a series ofoperations, a line model setting process of setting linear line modelinformation input from the panel for the macro information set in themacro information setting process, and recording the set line modelinformation and the macro information in the storage means incorrespondence with each other, a macro information read process ofreading out, from the storage means, macro information corresponding toline model information input from the panel, and a macro process ofexecuting a series of operations of the macro information read out inthe macro information read process.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010]FIG. 1 is a view showing an example of the structure of a mobilecommunication terminal apparatus in the first embodiment according tothe present invention;

[0011]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal arrangement of themobile communication terminal apparatus;

[0012]FIGS. 3A and 3B are block diagrams showing functional unitsimplemented by a CPU;

[0013]FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a line model registration method bya macro process in the mobile communication terminal apparatus;

[0014]FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a line model utilization method bythe macro process in the mobile communication terminal apparatus;

[0015]FIGS. 6A and 6B are views showing graphic data used forregistration in the macro process;

[0016]FIGS. 7A to 7H are views for explaining a process operation ofregistering in a cell phone a series of operations for displaying a calldestination selection photograph;

[0017]FIGS. 8A to 8G are views for explaining a process operation ofregistering in the cell phone a series of operations for registering atelephone number;

[0018]FIGS. 9A to 9E are views for explaining a process operation ofexecuting a macro process and performing an origination process;

[0019]FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of the structure of a mobilecommunication terminal apparatus in the second embodiment according tothe present invention; and

[0020]FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing functional units implemented bya CPU.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] (Feature of Present Invention)

[0022] The feature of the present invention will be explained withreference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0023] In a mobile communication terminal apparatus according to thepresent invention, macro information for executing a series of processoperations is set using liquid crystal units 1 and 2. Linear line modelinformation (line model shape information and line model positioninformation) input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 is added to themacro information. The line model information and macro information areregistered in a flash ROM 12 in correspondence with each other. Linemodel information registered in the flash ROM 12 is input from theliquid crystal units 1 and 2. In response to this, macro informationcorresponding to the input line model information is called from theflash ROM 12 to perform a series of process operations. Hence, aplurality of functions can be successively executed by a simple inputpattern.

[0024] (First Embodiment)

[0025] A cell phone according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention will be described.

[0026] The structure of the cell phone according to the first embodimentwill be explained with reference to FIG. 1.

[0027] The cell phone shown in FIG. 1 is a foldable cell phone havingtwo liquid crystal units 1 and 2. The foldable structure protects thetwo liquid crystal units 1 and 2. The cell phone comprises a data inputstylus 3 and an antenna (not shown).

[0028] The liquid crystal unit 1 mainly provides a normal windowdisplay, whereas the liquid crystal unit 2 provides a window displayassociated with data input. The liquid crystal units 1 and 2 are notdifferent in window display performance, and can be exchanged for onlythe display and operation functions. In other words, the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2 can achieve both the display and operation functions.

[0029] The internal structure of the cell phone shown in FIG. 1 will beexplained with reference to FIG. 2.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the cell phone comprises, in addition to theliquid crystal units 1 and 2, a CPU (controller) 10 which controls theoperation of each unit of the cell phone, a RAM (first storage) 11serving as a work area, a flash ROM (second storage) 12 which recordsvarious pieces of information, a baseband unit 13 which converts aninformation signal into a signal to be transmitted to a transmissionchannel, a radio unit 14 for the cell phone, and an interface 15 towhich a recording medium 16 is connected.

[0031] The flash ROM 12 records a control program (data operationprocess program), applications, and macro information and line modelinformation which are successively executed.

[0032] As line model information, line model shape information and linemodel position information (also containing line model size information)are registered in the flash ROM 12 in order to perform a plurality ofdifferent processes by the same line model. The line model shapeinformation is linear line model information which is input from theliquid crystal units 1 and 2 with the stylus 3, finger, or the like. Theline model position information represents a position on the liquidcrystal units 1 and 2 at which the linear line model is input.

[0033] The line model may permit registration of only one corner (oneline segment input by a series of operations of touching the pen tip tothe liquid crystal units 1 and 2, moving the pen tip to draw a line, andmoving the pen tip apart from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2), andregistration of a plurality of corners.

[0034] The control program is provided in a state in which it isrecorded on the recording medium 16 such as an optical disk, magneticdisk, or semiconductor memory. The recording medium 16 is connected tothe interface 15, and the CPU 10 reads out the control program writtenon the recording medium 16 and stores it in the flash ROM 12.

[0035] Functions implemented by the CPU 10 will be described withreference to FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0036] The CPU 10 executes the control program stored in the flash ROM12 to implement a macro information setting unit 20, macro informationdetermination unit 22, macro information presence display unit 23, linemodel setting unit 24, line model information determination unit 25,line model information presence display unit 26, and registration namesetting unit 27 which are illustrated in FIG. 3A, and a registrationcontent determination unit 30, registration content presence displayunit 34, macro information read unit 35, and macro processing unit 39which are illustrated in FIG. 3B.

[0037] The macro information setting unit 20 temporarily sets macroinformation input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 in the RAM 11.The macro information setting unit 20 comprises a macro informationsetting shift unit 21 capable of setting macro information in accordancewith a predetermined operation on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2.

[0038] The macro information determination unit 22 determines whethermacro information set by the macro information setting unit 20 hasalready been registered in the flash ROM 12.

[0039] The macro information presence display unit 23 displays on theliquid crystal units 1 and 2 a message that macro information hasalready been registered when the macro information determination unit 22determines that the macro information has already been registered in theflash ROM 12.

[0040] The line model setting unit 24 sets line model information inputfrom the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 for macro information set by themacro information setting unit 20, and registers the set line modelinformation and macro information in the flash ROM 12 in correspondencewith each other. When the macro information determination unit 22determines that no macro information has been registered in the flashROM 12, line model information can be input from the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2.

[0041] The line model information determination unit 25 determineswhether line model information set by the line model setting unit 24 hasalready been registered in the flash ROM 12. When the line modelinformation determination unit 25 determines that no line modelinformation has been registered, the line model setting unit 24registers line model information and macro information.

[0042] The line model information presence display unit 26 displays onthe liquid crystal units 1 and 2 a message that line model informationhas been registered when the line model information determination unit25 determines that line model information has been registered.

[0043] The registration name setting unit 27 sets, for line modelinformation set for macro information, a registration name foridentifying the line model information.

[0044] The registration content determination unit 30 determines whetherline model information input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 hasbeen registered in the flash ROM 12. The registration contentdetermination unit 30 comprises a line model shape informationdetermination unit 31 which determines whether shape information of aline model input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 has beenregistered in the flash ROM 12, a line model position informationdetermination unit 32 which determines whether position information ofthe line model has been registered in the flash ROM 12, and a positioninformation determination setting unit 33 which sets whether to performline model position information determination.

[0045] The registration content presence display unit 34 displays on theliquid crystal units 1 and 2 a message that no line model informationhas been registered when the registration content determination unit 30determines that no line model information has been registered in theflash ROM 12.

[0046] The macro information read unit 35 reads out macro informationcorresponding to line model information from the flash ROM 12 when theregistration content determination unit 30 determines that the linemodel information input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 has beenregistered in the flash ROM 12. More specifically, the macro informationread unit 35 reads out macro information corresponding to shapeinformation and position information of a line model from the flash ROM12 when the position information determination setting unit 33 setsexecution of line model position information determination, the linemodel shape information determination unit 31 determines that the linemodel shape information has been registered in the flash ROM 12, and theline model position information determination unit 32 determines thatthe line model position information has been registered in the flash ROM12. The macro information read unit 35 reads out macro informationcorresponding to line model shape information from the flash ROM 12 whenthe position information determination setting unit 33 sets no executionof line model position information determination and the line modelshape information determination unit 31 determines that the line modelshape information has been registered in the flash ROM 12.

[0047] The macro information read unit 35 comprises a first line modelpresence count determination unit 36 which determines whether pieces ofline model information input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 existin the flash ROM 12. When the first line model presence countdetermination unit 36 determines that pieces of line model informationexist, the macro information read unit 35 displays on the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2 a message that the pieces of line model information exist,and reads out from the flash ROM 12 macro information corresponding toline model information designated from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2.When the first line model presence count determination unit 36determines that single line model information exists, the macroinformation read unit 35 reads out macro information corresponding tothe single line model information from the flash ROM 12.

[0048] The macro information read unit 35 also comprises a second linemodel presence count determination unit 37 which determines whetherpieces of line model information having the same shape information andsame position information of a line model input from the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2 exist in the flash ROM 12. When the second line modelpresence count determination unit 37 determines that pieces of linemodel information having the same shape information and same positioninformation of a line model exist in the flash ROM 12, the macroinformation read unit 35 displays on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 amessage that the pieces of line model information exist, and reads outfrom the flash ROM 12 macro information corresponding to line modelinformation designated from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2. When thesecond line model presence count determination unit 37 determines thatsingle line model information having the same shape information and sameposition information of a line model exists, the macro information readunit 35 reads out macro information corresponding to the determinedsingle line model information from the flash ROM 12.

[0049] The macro information read unit 35 further comprises a macroinformation read continuation unit 38 which continuously reads out fromthe flash ROM 12 macro information corresponding to line modelinformation input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2.

[0050] The macro processing unit 39 executes a series of operations ofmacro information read out by the macro information read unit 35.

[0051] Process operations in the cell phone having the above arrangementwill be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 4 shows a linemodel registration method by a macro process. FIG. 5 shows a line modelutilization method by the macro process.

[0052] (Line Model Registration Method by Macro Process)

[0053] The line model registration method by the macro process will beexplained with reference to FIG. 4.

[0054] A predetermined operation is done on the liquid crystal unit 2 ofthe cell phone, and the macro information setting shift unit 21 shiftsthe normal mode to a macro setting mode (step S1). An operation methodof shifting to the macro setting mode may adopt various means such as ahard key or software key. Considering avoidance of any operation error,according to the first embodiment, the normal mode shifts to the macrosetting mode by touching the upper portion of the liquid crystal unit 2from right to left with the stylus or finger, as shown in FIG. 7A.

[0055] The cell phone function shifts from the normal mode to the macrosetting mode by a predetermined operation which triggers shift to themacro setting mode. Along with shift to the macro setting mode, thecolor of a keyboard displayed on the liquid crystal unit 2 can bechanged, as shown in FIG. 7B, or a character string (macro setting mode)representing that macro setting is in progress can also be overlappedand displayed on the liquid crystal unit 1, as shown in FIG. 7A. Theuser can be notified that the normal mode has shifted to the macrosetting mode. The operation in the macro setting mode is basically thesame as normal operation except that only a registration process of ascheduler, telephone book, or the like and an origination/on-hookprocess are different.

[0056] The macro information setting unit 20 sets macro information(step S2). More specifically, macro information input from the liquidcrystal units 1 and 2 is temporarily recorded in the RAM 11.

[0057] A macro information input process is done in the windows(operations) of the liquid crystal units 1 and 2. During setting ofmacro information, no setting is reflected in actual data recorded inthe cell phone. Similarly, only the window of the liquid crystal unit ischanged in a data origination process, and no actual origination processis performed.

[0058] If the origination process is performed during setting of macroinformation, the windows of the liquid crystal units change from “duringorigination—during calling—during speech communication”, and key inputsare executed in the respective windows so as to cope with pauseoperation or the like.

[0059] As an exceptional process in the use of a macro, a process ofwaiting for the next macro can be input after execution of the macro. Ingeneral, the window returns to an original one immediately afterexecution of a macro. This function enables executing another macroprocess while the window display of the liquid crystal unit or the likeis temporarily switched. By drawing a line model on the liquid crystalunit, a macro calling process (to be described later) also becomespossible. Similar to the macro calling mode (to be described later), acommand may be input by touching the upper portion of the liquid crystalunit 2 from left to right with the stylus (or finger), as shown in FIG.7D.

[0060] After a command is input, macro setting ends by touching againthe upper portion of the window of the liquid crystal unit 2 from rightto left, as shown in FIG. 7E (step S3).

[0061] After the end of macro setting, the macro informationdetermination unit 22 determines whether macro information set in themacro setting mode has already been registered in the flash ROM 12 (stepS4). If no macro information is determined to have been registered inthe flash ROM 12 (NO in step S4), the mode changes to a line modelsetting mode (step S6).

[0062] If the macro information is determined to have been registered inthe flash ROM 12 (YES in step S4), the macro information presencedisplay unit 23 displays on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 a pop-upmessage that the same macro information has already been registered inthe flash ROM 12. The user selects from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2one of an operation of setting line model information for the macroinformation (“set” in step S5), an operation of resetting the macroinformation (“reset” in step S5), and an operation of canceling themacro setting mode without setting any line model information for themacro information (“cancel” in step S5). A process corresponding to theselection is executed.

[0063] More specifically, if information selected by the user from theliquid crystal units 1 and 2 is determined to represent that line modelinformation is set for the macro information (“set” in step S5), themode shifts to the line model setting mode (step S6).

[0064] If the information selected by the user from the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2 is determined to represent that macro information is reset(“reset” in step S5), the process returns to step S2 to set macroinformation again.

[0065] If the information selected by the user from the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2 is determined to represent that the macro setting mode iscanceled (“cancel” in step S5), a series of processes end withoutshifting to the line model setting mode and setting any line modelinformation for the macro information (step S14).

[0066] In this manner, when set macro information is determined to existin the flash ROM 12, the user can select one of setting of new linemodel information for the set macro information, cancellation of newline model information for the set macro information, and resetting ofthe macro information.

[0067] If the mode shifts to the line model setting mode (step S6), theline model setting unit 24 sets line model information (step S7). Morespecifically, line model information input from the liquid crystal units1 and 2 is temporarily recorded in the RAM 11.

[0068] A line model information input window is displayed in a specificsolid color on both the liquid crystal screens of the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2. As shown in FIG. 7F, line model information is displayedon the liquid crystal unit at a position where the line modelinformation has been input. At this time, registration of line modelinformation becomes valid regardless of whether the line modelinformation is input from the liquid crystal unit 1 or 2.

[0069] Line model information is input with the stylus (or finger). Atthis time, line model shape information and line model positioninformation are set as the line model information. The line modelposition information contains line model size information.

[0070] In the case of permitting input of only one corner of line modelinformation, when the stylus (or finger) moves apart from the liquidcrystal units 1 and 2, input of line model information is determined toend, ending setting of line model information (step S8).

[0071] The line model information determination unit 25 determineswhether the line model information set in the line model setting modehas already been registered in the flash ROM 12 (step S9). Morespecifically, the line model information determination unit 25determines whether the line model shape information and positioninformation set in the line model setting mode coincide with line modelinformation registered in the flash ROM 12 (step S9). If the line modelshape information and position information are determined not tocoincide with the line model information (NO in step S9), the line modelinformation determination unit 25 determines that no line modelinformation has been registered in the flash ROM 12, and the mode shiftsto registration name setting (step S11).

[0072] If the line model shape information and position information aredetermined to coincide with the line model information (YES in step S9),the line model information presence display unit 26 displays on theliquid crystal units 1 and 2 a pop-up message that the same line modelinformation has already been registered in the flash ROM 12. The userselects from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 one of an operation ofsetting the same line model information (“set” in step S10), anoperation of resetting the line model information (“reset” in step S10),and an operation of canceling the line model setting mode withoutsetting any line model information (“cancel” in step S10). A processcorresponding to the selection is executed.

[0073] More specifically, if information selected by the user from theliquid crystal units 1 and 2 is determined to represent that line modelinformation is set (“set” in step S10), the registration name settingunit 27 sets a registration name for identifying the line modelinformation (step S11). For example, a registration name input from theliquid crystal units 1 and 2 is temporarily recorded in the RAM 11.

[0074] If the information selected by the user from the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2 is determined to represent that line model information isreset (“reset” in step S10), the process returns to step S7 to set linemodel information again.

[0075] If the information selected by the user from the liquid crystalunits 1 and 2 is determined to represent that the line model settingmode is canceled (“cancel” in step S10), a series of processes endwithout setting any line model information for the macro information(step S14).

[0076] In determination of step S9, only line model shape informationcan be determined.

[0077] Whether the registration name set in step S11 has already beenregistered in the flash ROM 12 is determined (step S12). If the sameregistration name is determined to have already been registered (YES instep S12), the process returns to step S11 again to reset a registrationname and inhibit the same registration name. If no same registrationname is determined to have been registered (NO in step S12), theregistration name is set for the line model information set in the linemodel setting mode.

[0078] The line model setting unit 24 reads out the macro information,line model information, and registration name which are recorded in theRAM 11, and records them in the flash ROM 12 in correspondence with eachother. Registration of the macro information, line model information,and registration name is completed (step S13), ending the macro settingmode.

[0079] The registration name is used to confirm line model informationset for macro information by the user when the same macro information asthat set in the macro setting mode is determined to have been registeredin the flash ROM 12 (step S4). Also, the registration name is used tofacilitate confirmation of information by the user by displaying theregistration name in addition to macro information and line modelinformation on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 when it is determined inthe macro setting mode and the macro calling mode (to be describedlater) that pieces of line model shape information coincide with eachother though pieces of line model position information are different.

[0080] (Line Model Utilization Method by Macro Process)

[0081] A process operation utilizing a line model in the macro processwill be explained with reference to FIG. 5.

[0082] A predetermined operation is done on the liquid crystal unit 2 ofthe cell phone, and the normal mode shifts to the macro calling mode(step S20).

[0083] As an operation method of shifting to the macro calling mode, theupper portion of the liquid crystal unit 2 is touched from left to rightwith the stylus (or finger), as shown in FIG. 9A, in consideration ofavoidance of any operation error.

[0084] By the above operation method, the cell phone shifts from thenormal mode to the macro calling mode. Along with shift to the macrocalling mode, a character string representing that the macro callingmode is set can be overlapped and displayed on the liquid crystal unit1, as shown in FIG. 9A, thus notifying the user of the macro callingmode. In the macro calling mode, the liquid crystal unit 2 displays thewindow of the normal mode, and does not particularly change.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 9B, line model information is input from theliquid crystal unit 1 (step S21). In the case of permitting input ofonly one corner of line model information, when the stylus (or finger)moves apart from the liquid crystal unit 1, input of line modelinformation is determined to be completed, similar to setting of linemodel information.

[0086] The line model shape information determination unit 31 of theregistration content determination unit 30 determines whether there is aregistration content in which line model shape information input fromthe liquid crystal unit 1 coincides with line model shape informationregistered in the flash ROM 12 (step S22). If a registration content inwhich the line model shape information coincides with the registeredline model shape information is determined not to exist (NO in stepS22), the registration content presence display unit 34 displays apop-up message to this effect on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2. Theprocess changes to the window of the original normal mode withoutexecuting any macro process (step S30).

[0087] If a registration content in which the line model shapeinformation coincides with the line model shape information registeredin the flash ROM 12 is determined to exist (YES in step S22), whetherthe current mode is a mode utilizing line model position information isdetermined (step S23). Note that the mode utilizing line model positioninformation is a mode in which a comparison process with contentsregistered in the flash ROM 12 is performed using line model positioninformation in addition to line model shape information input from theliquid crystal unit 1.

[0088] If the mode is determined in step S23 to be a mode utilizing noline model position information (NO in step S23), only pieces of linemodel shape information are compared in step S22, and the first linemodel presence count determination unit 36 of the macro information readunit 35 determines whether a plurality of line models with the sameshape information exist, without any comparison of line model positioninformation (step S25). If a plurality of line models having the sameshape information are determined to exist (YES in step S25), all piecesof line model information having the same shape information aredisplayed on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2, and the process changesto a user selection operation standby state. The user then selects macroinformation to be executed from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 (stepS26).

[0089] If the mode is determined in step S23 to be a mode utilizing linemodel position information (YES in step S23), pieces of line model shapeinformation are compared in step S22, and the line model positioninformation determination unit 32 of the registration contentdetermination unit 30 also compares pieces of line model positioninformation (step S24). If line models having the same shape informationexist but their pieces of position information do not coincide with eachother, the registration content presence display unit 34 displays apop-up message to this effect on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2.

[0090] When line models having the same shape information and sameposition information exist, the second line model presence countdetermination unit 37 of the macro information read unit 35 determineswhether a plurality of line models having the same shape information andsame position information exist (step S25). If a plurality of linemodels having the same shape information and same position informationare determined to exist (YES in step S25), all pieces of line modelinformation having the same shape information and same positioninformation are displayed on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2, and theprocess changes to a user selection standby state. The user then selectsmacro information to be executed from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2(step S26).

[0091] If single line model information is determined to exist (NO instep S25), the macro information read unit 35 reads out macroinformation corresponding to the single line model information from theflash ROM 12 (step S27). If the user selects macro information to beexecuted from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2 (step S26), the macroinformation read unit 35 reads out the selected macro information fromthe flash ROM 12 (step S27).

[0092] The macro information read continuation unit 38 of the macroinformation read unit 35 determines whether to continue the macrocalling mode (step S28). A pop-up message which notifies the userwhether to continue the macro calling mode can also be displayed on theliquid crystal units 1 and 2.

[0093] If the macro calling mode is determined to continue (YES in stepS28), the process returns to step S21 again to input line modelinformation. If the macro calling mode is determined not to continue (NOin step S28), the macro processing unit 39 executes a macro process, andthen the process changes to the window of the original normal mode (stepS29).

[0094] According to the first embodiment, in determination of whether tocontinue the macro calling mode, the macro calling mode is canceled bytouching the upper portion of the liquid crystal unit 2 from right toleft with the stylus (or finger). During execution of the macro process,a character string representing that a macro execution mode is set isoverlapped and displayed on the liquid crystal unit 1, notifying theuser that the macro execution mode is set. After the macro process ends,the character string displayed on the liquid crystal unit 1 is erased,and the macro execution mode changes to the normal mode. Duringexecution of the macro process, all other user operations are inhibitedto prevent any operation error.

[0095] As described above, the mode shifts to the macro calling mode,and line model information which has been registered in the flash ROM 12is input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2. Macro informationcorresponding to the input line model information can be read out fromthe flash ROM 12 to execute the macro process.

EXAMPLES

[0096] Examples of the process operation will be explained withreference to FIGS. 4 to 9E.

[0097] These examples will describe a process operation of using twoline models, confirming the call destinations of eight persons by theirphotographs with a simple operation, and calling a home telephone orcell phone.

[0098] As a pre-setup, graphic data A and graphic data B each containingphotographs of four persons are prepared, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0099] (Process Operation of Registering Series of Operations forDisplaying Call Destination Selection Photograph)

[0100] A process operation of registering a series of operations fordisplaying a call destination selection photograph will be explainedwith reference to FIGS. 4 and 7A to 7H.

[0101] As the first process, as shown in FIG. 7A, the upper portion ofthe liquid crystal unit 2 is touched from right to left with the stylus(or finger), and the normal mode shifts to the macro setting mode (stepS1).

[0102] As the second process, as shown in FIG. 7B, graphic data A shownin FIG. 6A is displayed on the liquid crystal unit 1.

[0103] As the third process, as shown in FIG. 7C, graphic data B shownin FIG. 6B is displayed on the liquid crystal unit 2.

[0104] As the fourth process, as shown in FIG. 7D, the upper portion ofthe liquid crystal unit 2 is touched from left to right with the stylus(or finger), shifting to a macro setting standby state.

[0105] As the fifth process, as shown in FIG. 7E, the upper portion ofthe liquid crystal unit 2 is touched from right to left with the stylus(or finger), shifting to the line model setting mode (step S6).

[0106] As the sixth process, as shown in FIG. 7F, a line model “◯” isinput from the liquid crystal unit 2 (step S7).

[0107] As the seventh process, as shown in FIG. 7G, a registration nameis set (step S12).

[0108] As the eighth process, as shown in FIG. 7H, the macro settingmode ends upon the completion of setting the registration name, changingto the normal mode (step S14).

[0109] (Process Operation of Registering Series of Operations forRegistering Telephone Number (or Calling Telephone Number from TelephoneBook Instead of Inputting Telephone Number)

[0110] A process operation of registering a series of operations forregistering a telephone number will be explained with reference to FIGS.4 and 8A to 8G.

[0111] As the first process, as shown in FIG. 8A, the upper portion ofthe liquid crystal unit 2 is touched from right to left with the stylus(or finger), and the normal mode shifts to the macro setting mode (stepS1).

[0112] As the second process, as shown in FIG. 8B, the home telephonenumber of friend A-1 is input, and origination operation is performed(step S2).

[0113] As the third process, as shown in FIG. 8C, the upper portion ofthe liquid crystal unit 2 is touched from right to left with the stylus(or finger), shifting to the line model setting mode (step S6).

[0114] As the fourth process, as shown in FIG. 8D, a line model “◯” isinput at a position within area A-1 of the liquid crystal unit 1 (stepS7).

[0115] As the fifth process, as shown in FIG. 8E, a registration name isset (step S12).

[0116] As the sixth process, as shown in FIG. 8F, the macro setting modeends upon the completion of setting the registration name (step S14).

[0117] As the seventh process, the first to sixth processes are repeatedto register a cell phone number. Note that a cell phone number isregistered by inputting “Δ” as a line model input in the fourth processfrom the liquid crystal unit, as shown in FIG. 8G.

[0118] As the eighth process, the first to seventh processes arerepeated to register the home telephone numbers and cell phone numbersof friends A-2 to B-4 shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0119] (Process Operation of Executing Macro Process and PerformingOrigination Process).

[0120] A process operation of executing a macro process and performingan origination process to the home telephone number of friend A-2 or thecell phone of fried B-3 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and9A to 9E.

[0121] As the first process, as shown in FIG. 9A, the upper portion ofthe liquid crystal unit 2 is touched from left to right with the stylus(or finger), and the normal mode shifts to the macro calling mode (stepS20).

[0122] As the second process, as shown in FIG. 9B, a line model “◯” isinput from the liquid crystal unit 1 (step S21). After graphic data Aand graphic data B are displayed on the liquid crystal units 1 and 2,the macro calling mode continues.

[0123] As the third process, when the home telephone number of friendA-2 is to be called, a line model “◯” is input in area A-2 of the liquidcrystal unit 1, as shown in FIG. 9C. When the cell phone number offriend B-3 is to be called, a line model “Δ” is input in area B-3 of theliquid crystal unit 2.

[0124] As the fourth process, as shown in FIG. 9E, the macro callingmode ends after the origination process, changing to the normal mode(step S29).

[0125] (Second Embodiment)

[0126] The second embodiment will be described.

[0127] The first embodiment has described an operation limited to a casein which input of line model information is one corner. In the secondembodiment, a plurality of corners or pieces of line model informationare permitted, and a more friendly user interface can be provided. Thebasic operation method is the same as that in the first embodiment.However, line model information input operation must be definedincluding the input start timing of line model information because thecell phone cannot automatically recognize the input completion timing ofline model information.

[0128] The second embodiment adopts the following two operation methods.

[0129] As the first operation method, pieces of line model informationfor a plurality of corners are input by performing, at the end ofinputting line model information, the same operation as that at thestart of inputting line model information.

[0130] As the second operation method, as shown in FIG. 10, a hard keyis attached to a cell phone. While the attached hard key is pressed,line model information is kept input, thereby inputting pieces of linemodel information for a plurality of corners.

[0131] In either method, as shown in FIG. 11, a line model setting unit24 implemented by a CPU 10 requires a line model input startdetermination unit 41 which determines the start of inputting line modelinformation from liquid crystal units 1 and 2, and a line model inputend determination unit 42 which determines the end of inputting linemodel information.

[0132] The first operation method is almost the same as the operationmethod described in the first embodiment. By touching the upper portionof the liquid crystal unit 2 with the stylus (or finger) even at the endof inputting line model information, the cell phone can detect the endof inputting line model information. That is, the line model input startdetermination unit 41 determines the start of inputting line modelinformation when a predetermined operation on the liquid crystal unit 2is detected. The line model input end determination unit 42 determinesthe end of inputting line model information when the same operation asthat at the start of input is detected again.

[0133] According to the second operation method, the hard key shown inFIG. 10 is pressed after command input in macro recording. The linemodel input start determination unit 41 determines that command inputends and the cell phone changes to a line model information input state.While the hard key is pressed, line model information is input. Upon thecompletion of inputting the line model information, the hard key isreleased. The line model input end determination unit 42 determines thatinput of the line model information ends. Note that the hard keyposition shown in FIG. 10 is merely an example, and the position is notparticularly limited to this.

[0134] The above-described embodiments are preferred embodiments of thepresent invention. The present invention can be variously changed andmodified without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0135] For example, the above embodiments have described a cell phone,but the present invention can be applied to any communication device asfar as the device is an information communication terminal apparatussuch as a PDA having a liquid crystal unit. A mobile communicationterminal apparatus in the embodiments can also be constructed byexecuting the process operations shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 as programs inan information communication terminal apparatus having a liquid crystalunit. The liquid crystal unit may be replaced with another panel usedfor a predetermined operation and image display.

[0136] As has been described above, in the above embodiments, macroinformation which executes a series of processes is set using the liquidcrystal units 1 and 2. Line model information input from the liquidcrystal units 1 and 2 is set for the set macro information. The macroinformation is registered in the flash ROM 12 together with the linemodel information. The line model information registered in the flashROM 12 is input from the liquid crystal units 1 and 2. In response tothis, the macro information corresponding to the line model informationis called from the flash ROM 12, and a series of processes set in themacro information are executed. A plurality of functions aresuccessively executed using the line model information which is a simpleinput pattern, thus providing a user-friendly operation method.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mobile communication terminal apparatus havinga panel used for a predetermined operation and image display and storagemeans for recording various pieces of information, comprising: macroinformation setting means for setting macro information which performs aseries of operations; line model setting means for setting linear linemodel information input from said panel for the macro information set bysaid macro information setting means, and recording the set line modelinformation and the macro information in said storage means incorrespondence with each other; macro information read means for readingout, from said storage means, macro information corresponding to linemodel information input from said panel; and macro processing means forexecuting a series of operations of the macro information read out bysaid macro information read means.
 2. An apparatus according to claim 1,wherein said macro information setting means comprises macro informationsetting shift means capable of setting macro information in accordancewith a predetermined operation on said panel.
 3. An apparatus accordingto claim 1, further comprising macro information determination means fordetermining whether set macro information has been recorded in saidstorage means, wherein when said macro information determination meansdetermines that no macro information has been recorded in said storagemeans, said line model setting means allows inputting line modelinformation from said panel.
 4. An apparatus according to claim 3,further comprising macro information presence display means for, whensaid macro information determination means determines that macroinformation has been recorded in said storage means, displaying on saidpanel a message that the macro information has been recorded.
 5. Anapparatus according to claim 1, further comprising line modelinformation determination means for determining whether set line modelinformation has been recorded in said storage means, wherein when saidline model information determination means determines that no line modelinformation has been recorded in said storage means, said line modelsetting means records line model information and macro information insaid storage means.
 6. An apparatus according to claim 5, furthercomprising line model information presence display means for, when saidline model information determination means determines that line modelinformation has been recorded in said storage means, displaying on saidpanel a message that the line model information has been recorded.
 7. Anapparatus according to claim 1, further comprising registration namesetting means for setting for set line model information a registrationname for identifying the line model information.
 8. An apparatusaccording to claim 1, further comprising recording content determinationmeans for determining whether line model information input from saidpanel has been recorded in said storage means, wherein when saidrecording content determination means determines that the line modelinformation has been recorded in said storage means, said macroinformation read means reads out macro information corresponding to theline model information from said storage means.
 9. An apparatusaccording to claim 8, further comprising recording content presencedisplay means for, when said recording content determination meansdetermines that no line model information has been recorded in saidstorage means, displaying on said panel a message that no line modelinformation has been recorded.
 10. An apparatus according to claim 8,wherein the line model information is formed by shape informationrepresenting a shape of a line model and position informationrepresenting a position at which the line model is input from saidpanel, said recording content determination means comprises line modelshape information determination means for determining whether the shapeinformation of the line model input from said panel has been recorded insaid storage means, and line model position information determinationmeans for determining whether the position information of the line modelinput from said panel has been recoded in said storage means, and saidmacro information read means reads out macro information correspondingto the shape information and the position information of the line modelwhen said line model shape information determination means determinesthat the shape information of the line model has been recorded in saidstorage means, and said line model position information determinationmeans determines that the position information of the line model hasbeen recorded in said storage means.
 11. An apparatus according to claim10, wherein said recording content determination means comprisesposition information determination setting means for setting whether toperform line model position information determination, said macroinformation read means reads out macro information corresponding toshape information and position information of a line model when the linemodel position information determination is set to be performed, saidline model shape information determination means determines that theshape information of the line model has been recorded in said storagemeans, and said line model position information determination meansdetermines that the position information of the line model has beenrecorded in said storage means, and said macro information read meansreads out macro information corresponding to the shape information ofthe line model when no line model position information determination isset to be performed, and said line model shape information determinationmeans determines that the shape information of the line model has beenrecorded in said storage means.
 12. An apparatus according to claim 1,wherein said macro information read means comprises first line modelpresence count determination means for determining whether pieces ofline model information exist in said storage means, when said first linemodel presence count determination means determines that pieces of linemodel information exist, said macro information read means displays onsaid panel a message that the pieces of line model information exist,and reads out macro information corresponding to line model informationdesignated from said panel, and when said first line model presencecount determination means determines that single line model informationexists, said macro information read means reads out macro informationcorresponding to the determined single line model information.
 13. Anapparatus according to claim 10, wherein said macro information readmeans comprises second line model presence count determination means fordetermining whether pieces of line model information having same shapeinformation and same position information of a line model exist in saidstorage means, when said second line model presence count determinationmeans determines that pieces of line model information having the sameshape information and the same position information of the line modelexist in said storage means, said macro information read means displayson said panel a message that the pieces of line model information exist,and reads out macro information corresponding to line model informationdesignated from said panel, and when said second line model presencecount determination means determines that single line model informationhaving the same shape information and the same position information ofthe line model exists, said macro information read means reads out macroinformation corresponding to the determined single line modelinformation.
 14. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said macroinformation read means comprises macro information read continuationmeans for continuously reading out, from said storage means, macroinformation corresponding to line model information input from saidpanel.
 15. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said panel isformed by a liquid crystal.
 16. An apparatus according to claim 1,wherein said line model setting means comprises line model input startdetermination means for determining a start of inputting line modelinformation from said panel, and line model input end determinationmeans for determining an end of inputting the line model informationfrom said panel.
 17. An apparatus according to claim 16, wherein saidline model input start determination means determines a start ofinputting line model information when a predetermined operation on saidpanel is detected, and said line model input end determination meansdetermines an end of inputting line model information when the sameoperation as the operation at the start of input is detected again. 18.An apparatus according to claim 16, wherein said line model input startdetermination means and said line model input end determination meansrespectively determine a start and end of inputting line modelinformation on the basis of a press of a hard key.
 19. A recordingmedium which records a program that causes a controller of a mobilecommunication terminal apparatus having a panel used for a predeterminedoperation and image display and storage means for recording variouspieces of information to execute a macro information setting process ofsetting macro information which performs a series of operations, a linemodel setting process of setting linear line model information inputfrom the panel for the macro information set in the macro informationsetting process, and recording the set line model information and themacro information in the storage means in correspondence with eachother, a macro information read process of reading out, from the storagemeans, macro information corresponding to line model information inputfrom the panel, and a macro process of executing a series of operationsof the macro information read out in the macro information read process.20. A medium according to claim 19, wherein the macro informationsetting process comprises a macro information setting shift processcapable of setting macro information in accordance with a predeterminedoperation on the panel.
 21. A medium according to claim 19, wherein theprogram causes the controller to further execute a macro informationdetermination process of determining whether set macro information hasbeen recorded in the storage means, and in the line model settingprocess, line model information can be input from the panel when macroinformation is determined in the macro information determination processnot to have been recorded in the storage means.
 22. A medium accordingto claim 21, wherein the program causes the controller to furtherexecute a macro information presence display process of, when macroinformation is determined in the macro information determination processto have been recorded in the storage means, displaying on the panel amessage that the macro information has been recorded.
 23. A mediumaccording to claim 19, wherein the program causes the controller tofurther execute a line model information determination process ofdetermining whether set line model information has been recorded in thestorage means, and in the line model setting process, when line modelinformation is determined in the line model information determinationprocess not to have been recorded in the storage means, line modelinformation and macro information are recorded in the storage means. 24.A medium according to claim 23, wherein the program causes thecontroller to further execute a line model information presence displayprocess of, when line model information is determined in the line modelinformation determination process to have been recorded in the storagemeans, displaying on the panel a message that the line model informationhas been recorded.
 25. A medium according to claim 19, wherein theprogram causes the controller to further execute a registration namesetting process of setting for set line model information a registrationname for identifying the line model information.
 26. A medium accordingto claim 19, wherein the program causes the controller to furtherexecute a recording content determination process of determining whetherline model information input from the panel has been recorded in thestorage means, and in the macro information read process, when linemodel information is determined in the recording content determinationprocess to have been recorded in the storage means, macro informationcorresponding to the line model information is read out from the storagemeans.
 27. A medium according to claim 26, wherein the program causesthe controller to further execute a recording content presence displayprocess of, when line model information is determined in the recordingcontent determination process not to have been recorded in the storagemeans, displaying on the panel a message that no line model informationhas been recorded.
 28. A medium according to claim 26, wherein the linemodel information is formed by shape information representing a shape ofa line model and position information representing a position at whichthe line model is input from the panel, the recording contentdetermination process comprises a line model shape informationdetermination process of determining whether the shape information ofthe line model input from the panel has been recorded in the storagemeans, and a line model position information determination process ofdetermining whether the position information of the line model inputfrom the panel has been recoded in the storage means, and in the macroinformation read process, macro information corresponding to the shapeinformation and the position information of the line model is read outwhen the shape information of the line model is determined in the linemodel shape information determination process to have been recorded inthe storage means, and the position information of the line model isdetermined in the line model position information determination processto have been recorded in the storage means.
 29. A medium according toclaim 28, wherein the recording content determination process comprisesa position information determination setting process of setting whetherto perform line model position information determination, in the macroinformation read process, macro information corresponding to shapeinformation and position information of a line model is read out whenthe line model position information determination is set to beperformed, the shape information of the line model is determined in theline model shape information determination process to have been recordedin the storage means, and the position information of the line model isdetermined in the line model position information determination processto have been recorded in the storage means, and macro informationcorresponding to the shape information of the line model is read outwhen no line model position information determination is set to beperformed, and the shape information of the line model is determined inthe line model shape information determination process to have beenrecorded in the storage means.
 30. A medium according to claim 19,wherein the macro information read process comprises a first line modelpresence count determination process of determining whether pieces ofline model information exist in the storage means, when pieces of linemodel information are determined to exist in the first line modelpresence count determination process, a message that the pieces of linemodel information exist is displayed on the panel, and macro informationcorresponding to line model information designated from the panel isread out, and when single line model information is determined to existin the first line model presence count determination process, macroinformation corresponding to the determined single line modelinformation is read out.
 31. A medium according to claim 28, wherein themacro information read process comprises a second line model presencecount determination process of determining whether pieces of line modelinformation having same shape information and same position informationof a line model exist in the storage means, when pieces of line modelinformation having the same shape information and the same positioninformation of a line model are determined to exist in the storage meansin the second line model presence count determination process, a messagethat the pieces of line model information exist is displayed on thepanel, and macro information corresponding to line model informationdesignated from the panel is read out, and when single line modelinformation having the same shape information and the same positioninformation of a line model is determined to exist in the second linemodel presence count determination process, macro informationcorresponding to the determined single line model information is readout.
 32. A medium according to claim 19, wherein the macro informationread process comprises a macro information read continuation process ofcontinuously reading out, from the storage means, macro informationcorresponding to line model information input from the panel.
 33. Amedium according to claim 19, wherein the panel is formed by a liquidcrystal.
 34. A medium according to claim 19, wherein the line modelsetting process comprises a line model input start determination processof determining a start of inputting line model information from thepanel, and a line model input end determination process of determiningan end of inputting line model information from the panel.
 35. A mediumaccording to claim 34, wherein in the line model input startdetermination process, a start of inputting line model information isdetermined when a predetermined operation on the panel is detected, andin the line model input end determination process, an end of inputtingline model information is determined when the same operation as theoperation at the start of input is detected again.
 36. A mediumaccording to claim 34, wherein in the line model input startdetermination process and the line model input end determinationprocess, a start and end of inputting line model information arerespectively determined on the basis of a press of a hard key.